Siegel encouraged the attendance of Police Department officials, Police Commission members and concerned citizens, as way to reach a more satisfying closure

After Siegel's proposal, fellow Ward-3 Progressive Councilor Vince Brennan withdrew his resolution calling for an independent investigation into the fracas at the Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers, where sting- and pepper-pellets were fired to clear a sidewalk.

The incident, which resulted in no serious injuries, took place after a much larger, peaceful demonstration at the waterfront Hilton against the importation of tar sands-derived oil.

Brennan's resolution, which cites an "appearance of bias" in the police department's internal evaluation of events, has tentatively been placed on the Council's Dec. 3 agenda.

It calls for the director of the Vermont Human Rights Commission to recommend a new investigation, with a cap of $10,000 on expenditures.

Burlington resident Greg Guma, speaking during the Council's public comments period, said he's concerned that the confrontation between protesters and police might shape future parameters for civil disobedience in the city.

As a starting point for mediation, Guma posed two questions: Why had police "telegraphed" aggressive tactics by donning riot gear, in advance of the incident; and why did protesters cut off any meaningful communication with authorities?

Another resident, Brian Perkins, prosposed that authorities -- and protesters -- should decide in advance that their ultimate aim should be to peacefully bring their concerns to the courtroom: "the least violent means possible to the best possible forum."

Police Commission Chairman Jerome O'Neill, speaking to the Council, said the department was reviewing tactics it used last summer -- even though they acted in accordance with existing policies.

"It doesn't mean you can't do it better in the future," O'Neill said. "The outcome disturbed everyone."

Councilor Sharon Bushor, I-Ward 1, said she approved of a further discussion -- and that the Police Commission likely works too closely with the department to conduct a productive dialogue.

"I think it needed to be one step removed (from the department)," Bushor said. "I'm not looking for blame. I'm just looking for answers."